Fulham FC submits redevelopment plans for ground

Fulham Football Club has submitted plans for the redevelopment the Riverside stand at its Craven Cottage stadium in London. Planning permission is sought in order to increase the stadium's capacity from 25,700 to 30,000 people.13 Jan 2012

The redevelopment proposals, which have been submitted to Hammersmith and Fulham District Council, include proposals for new public amenities; a larger Club shop; new restaurant, bar and food outlet facilities and new corporate hospitality boxes. The new stand has been designed so that it mirrors the bend in the Thames river.

The construction programme will not impact on play at Craven Cottage, the Club said.

"Further significant funds will be invested to open up the Thames River walk from Hammersmith to Putney for the first time in recent history," said a club statement. "A further two exhibitions will take place on Wednesday 25 January and Saturday 29 January respectively, to showcase the final design submitted and provide feedback from the second consultation".

At present, the riverside walk between Putney and Hammersmith stops and is diverted around Craven Cottage via Stevenage Park. The Club's proposal will create a new pedestrian path along the river that will be open and accessible to the general public.

Public consultation on the proposed redevelopment began in October 2011 with the first of the Club's consultations on its plans. Over 3,000 people participated and 94% said they supported the Club's ambition to stay at Craven Cottage and expand to a capacity of 30,000. 75% agreed that the Riverside Stand was the most appropriate one to develop.

Craven Cottage has been the Club's home for over a century, since 1896. The plans follow speculation that the Club would seek to move to another ground.